Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew has issued an urgent warning to parents and guardians to be especially vigilant as they handle the recent disbursement of the Government’s back-to-school financial assistance of $200. He emphasizes that parents should not delegate the responsibility of withdrawing these funds to their children, as this could expose them to potential scams.

Mr. Chew cautions that, during this busy financial period, opportunistic fraudsters may be lurking, ready to exploit unsuspecting individuals. He underscores the importance of adults personally managing these transactions to ensure the safety of their funds. “You don’t know who is at the sidelines exploring the opportunity to steal information or money,” he stated.

In line with this, he warns against sharing sensitive personal information, such as Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) and passwords, advising families to be skeptical of unsolicited requests for money that frequently circulate through messaging apps like Viber, WhatsApp, and Facebook. Previous police reports have indicated a surge in scams targeting families during financially sensitive times, particularly concerning the back-to-school season.

Chew also highlights that once money is lost to scams, recovering those funds can be a lengthy and complicated process involving law enforcement, which emphasizes the significance of being cautious while conducting online or in-person transactions.

The police are actively promoting a culture of awareness within the community, encouraging parents to discuss potential frauds openly and to share knowledge about the latest scams affecting families. Such proactive measures can significantly strengthen community resilience against financial exploitation.

Overall, this advisory not only serves as a reminder for parents to practice responsible financial behavior but also fosters an environment of vigilance and cooperation among families. By taking informed actions, parents can help ensure a secure financial atmosphere for their children, paving the way for a safer back-to-school experience. As communities work together, the likelihood of falling victim to scams diminishes, providing hope for safer transactions in the future.